The First Master’s Degree in Mindfulness Studies

Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts now offers a groundbreaking Master of Arts in Mindfulness Studies – the first program of its kind. This innovative degree combines academic theory with practical mindfulness training.

What Makes This Mindfulness Program Unique?

Holistic curriculum: Blends mindfulness practice with social, cultural, and organizational applications
Real-world implementation: Students apply mindfulness in diverse settings (healthcare, education, etc.)
Academic rigor: Examines mindfulness through historical, cultural, and political lenses

Program Highlights & Student Experiences

Current students are applying mindfulness in remarkable ways:

Implementing mindfulness practices in hospice care settings
Bringing mindfulness techniques into school environments
Applying mindfulness principles to organizational leadership

The Research Debate: A Missing Component?

While pioneering, the program has drawn some criticism:

Lack of research focus: No dedicated research component despite growing scientific interest
NIH concerns: Since 2007, the NIH has called for more rigorous mindfulness research
Definition challenges: Neuroscience experts note ambiguity in defining "mindfulness" affects study comparisons

Why This Program Matters for Mindfulness Education

This degree represents a significant milestone in:

Academic validation of mindfulness studies
Professional applications across multiple fields
Developing standards for mindfulness education

Updated October 2014

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Mindfulness Master's Degree: Lesley University Program